Respiratory Retraining
Behavioral Respiratory Retraining for Dysfunctional Breathing
Shortness of breath with activity, or perceived excessive breathlessness, may suggest a person has a form of Dysfunctional Breathing. This is an unconscious alteration of muscle activity that makes getting a full, satisfying breath difficult. Throat and chest tightness, as well as little improvement with inhalers, are often reported. This can impact persons doing their daily activities, the weekend warrior, or the elite athlete in a highly competitive arena. This type of Dysfunctional Breathing termed Exercise Induced Dysfunction (EID) is treated in the same manner as Voice Therapy for Vocal Cord Dysfunction, now known a Exercise Induced Laryngeal Obstruction (EILO). ProVoice Center clinicians specialize in retraining breathing patterns and integrating these new patterns into functional activities. The program is centered around the person and their goals, most often treated in as little as 4 sessions, though specializing to meet each person’s needs may vary. It is essential to have had evaluation by a pulmonologist and, in some cases, a cardiologist before participating in a full rehabilitation program.